Blockbuster Deal: Kawhi Leonard Traded to Clippers from Raptors!
The Clippers and Raptors have finally agreed to complete the blockbuster trade sending Kawhi Leonard back to Toronto, following an NBA investigation into the Clippers' salary cap circumvention. Leonard waived his trade kicker to facilitate the deal, while the Clippers face severe league punishments but acquire Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and multiple draft picks. The trade marks Leonard's return to the team he led to a championship.
The blockbuster trade that will send Kawhi Leonard back to the Toronto Raptors has finally been agreed upon by the Los Angeles Clippers and Raptors, sources close to ESPN's Shams Charania revealed.
The teams are now set to schedule a trade call to finalize the long-anticipated deal. This agreement comes after the initial transaction, which was first reached on June 30, was put on hold as the NBA conducted a thorough investigation into the Clippers for potential salary cap circumvention.
A critical factor in facilitating the trade was Kawhi Leonard's decision to waive his trade kicker, valued at $7.45 million.
This move was essential as the bonus would have pushed the Raptors above the first apron of the salary cap.
With Leonard's waiver, Toronto is projected to be $2.3 million below the first apron with 13 guaranteed contracts once the deal is officially processed, according to ESPN's Bobby Marks.
Earlier this month, the NBA announced severe repercussions for the Clippers following a nearly yearlong investigation.
The league's inquiry uncovered "a pattern of misconduct and multiple significant rules violations by the Clippers organization, a prior offender of the salary cap circumvention rules."
As a result, the Clippers were penalized with the loss of five future first-round draft picks, a substantial fine of $30 million, and a yearlong suspension for owner Steve Ballmer, specifically in connection with Leonard's case.
Despite the significant penalties, the Clippers will receive a substantial package in return for Leonard.
Los Angeles is set to acquire Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round picks, one first-round pick swap, and two second-round draft picks.
The completion of the trade follows 13 days during which the Clippers navigated the league's disciplinary actions and worked through various internal logistical matters.
Kawhi Leonard's return to Toronto marks a significant moment for the Raptors, as he famously led them to their first NBA championship in franchise history in 2019.
Following that historic season, Leonard departed Toronto in the subsequent offseason to sign with the Clippers.
Fans will have several opportunities to see the teams compete, with Toronto visiting the Clippers on November 2 and hosting them on January 1. Additionally, the teams are slated for a preseason matchup in Vancouver on October 10.